Technical Analyst at Distributed Renewable Energy Enhancement Facility (DREEF)

Job Summary

• The DREEF seeking to appoint a Technical Analyst to support the execution of the technical and engineering workstream within the project development pillar of the DREEF. Working jointly with DRE Project Developers, the Technical Analyst  will provide technical support for the design of ‘shovel-ready’ DRE projects that will have minimal to zero issues in Lender Technical Due Diligence Criteria[1] and preparation of all technical documentation required by potential local currency financiers while ensuring strict adherence to the agreed project development process.

This position is critical to the overall performance of the DREEF and will report directly to the Technical Manager.

Job Details

Duties and Responsibilities & Duties

• Review and assess the Lender Technical Due Diligence Criteria (toolkit) and incorporate into the applicable standard operating procedures for the DREEF’s technical assistance support criteria and methodology.
• Work closely alongside and interface with the technical counterpart officer at InfraCredit to ensure symmetry of information, knowledge exchange, and alignment on information/output requirements that meet project finance lenders' bankability requirements.
• Design of DRE projects including undertaking a geospatial assessment of sites selected for mini-grids, demand modelling, incorporation of productive use of energy, distribution network planning and design, generation system design, and financial modelling following industry best practices as enshrined in the agreed project development process.
• Contribute and assist with conducting technical feasibility studies and technical assessments of projects to be supported by DREEF.
• Analyze operational data from DRE projects supported by the DREEF to assess performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Provide technical expertise in the structuring of projects, including the development of technical specifications for procurement and contracting.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for clients, stakeholders, and internal teams.
• Collaborate with the project finance team to ensure that financial models accurately reflect project specifications, costs, and revenue projections that support project investment decisions.
• Assist with managing the preparation of technical documentation required for project approvals, due diligence, and compliance with regulatory and investor requirements.
• Provide support the engagement of project stakeholders, including developers, co-investors, and government entities, to build partnerships and expand the network of the DREEF.
• Support the knowledge management activities on all technical workstreams including documenting lessons learned from joint project development activities, recommending revision(s) to the project development process based on lessons learned, and providing technical training and support to internal and external teams and partners.
• Participate in industry conferences and workshops to represent DREEF and expand our network in the renewable energy industry, as well as stay abreast of technological advancements in the renewable energy sector to identify opportunities for innovation and efficiency improvements in the project development process of the DREEF.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, renewable energy, energy systems, or a related technical discipline; a Master’s degree or relevant professional certifications is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 5 to 7 years of technical/engineering experience with strong exposure to distributed renewable energy projects including mini-grids for off-grid and under-grid electrification.
• Technical knowledge of renewable energy technologies, including but not limited to solar, wind, hydro, and biomass energy systems.
• In-depth understanding of mini-grid system design, system sizing, component specifications, site selection and demand assessment
• Strong technical expertise in electrical systems, renewable energy technologies, and project management.
• Proven track record of successfully managing and delivering distributed renewable energy projects from conception through to financial close and operational launch.
• Experience in conducting and overseeing technical feasibility studies for DRE projects, including site assessments, resource evaluations, technology selection, and financial modelling.
• Proven track record of successfully implementing mini-grid projects, preferably in developing countries.
• Experience in developing and delivering training programs related to technical aspects of DRE projects.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with the capacity to effectively collaborate with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders.
• Proficiency in project management, with the ability to oversee multiple projects simultaneously and ensure timely delivery of technical objectives.
• Strong leadership qualities and the ability to inspire and guide teams towards achieving technical goals.
• Proficient in relevant industry-standard software and tools for system design and project management e.g., HOMER, QGIS, CAD tools etc.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills including expertise in MS Office suite.
• A strong team player with a proven capacity to work independently.